The well-known Chinese e-commerce group, Alibaba, could be extending its influence over the Eastern European market, with a new logistics center in the area.

Specifically, the company is currently planning to add a new center for business and logistics in the Eastern-European country of Bulgaria. Representatives from the Chinese group met with the Bulgarian Prime Minister, Boyko Borisov, to explore investment opportunities in the country. Alibaba is looking to invest in Europe, as part of the Chinese government’s strategy to expand commercial relations between Asia and Europe. The ‘One Belt, One Road’ strategy has been described by some as being the ‘New Silk Road’.

Regarding this possible investment in Bulgaria, the country’s Government representatives announced: ‘Alibaba Group’s ideas for investments are linked to setting up a logistics center to back up their operations in Europe. The project will also include trading of Bulgarian goods and foods in the international market’.

As stated above, Alibaba is also considering to offer local Bulgarian foods and commodities for sale, using its online platform. The Group’s business includes commercial activities, digital media, cloud computing and entertainment, along with various initiatives for innovation. The authorities are still in the discussion stage and will decide later on the terms and conditions of building the new logistics center.